GAMBLING is a diagnosis and it can be treated.
Overcoming gambling in trading is essentially fighting against emotional dependence on the trading process, not the result. Gambling manifests as a constant urge to act: revenge, loss after loss, averaging down, betting 'everything', playing for excitement rather than systematic work.
How to really overcome gambling?
1. Acknowledge gambling — it’s not a 'mistake', it's a symptom
Do not disguise it as 'I'm just undisciplined'. This is a real addiction and requires a serious approach, just like any addiction — with awareness and a system.
2. Limit access to the market
• Only one trade per day. Even if you see a super setup.
• Limit losses for the day/week. For example:
"If there are 2 consecutive losing trades — the terminal is closed."
3. Keep a diary of emotions
Not just trades, but what you felt before, during, and after the trade:
• Was there a sense of alarm?
• Did you want to get back at it?
• Did you feel a rush?
Over time, you will see the triggers that activate gambling (for example: stress, loneliness, anger, overwork). And next time under these emotions, you won't sit at the monitor.
4. Separate trading from 'playing'
Trading = system + plan + risk.
Gambling = chaos + emotions.
If you want to play — play chess, poker, or video games. But not on the stock exchange.
5. Meditation / sports
This is not esotericism. Physical activity and breathing practices reduce impulsiveness, bringing you back to the 'now'. Even 10 minutes of breathing or 20 minutes of running can save your deposit.
7. Visual reminder
Hang it on your monitor, remember it. And repeat it before entering a trade.
"The next trade won't change my life. But it can ruin it."
